Driving is an activity that many of us take for granted. It provides us with the freedom and independence to go whenever and wherever we want to. As we age, and begin to experience declines in vision, hearing, strength, mobility and perhaps memory, it is imperative to take steps to maximize our ability to driver safely.

There are several programs available to help older drivers learn to compensate for decreases in skills and it is possible to make physical adaptations to cars if appropriate. My regular readers know that my mantra is always "plan ahead before a crisis." This then is the time, while you are still on the road, to create a future transportation plan. In my private practice, working with clients and their families on successfully aging in place, we address the fact that there may come a day when driving is no longer possible. The American Medical Association's Physician's Guide to Assessing and Counseling Older Drivers points out that when a person retires from driving, "the transition from driver to non-driver will be less traumatic if they have already created a transportation plan."

Where do you begin? Start by asking this: If my car broke down today, how would that affect my life? Make a list of everything you do that involves driving. General areas might include: work (if still appropriate), doctor's appointments, picking up medications, grocery shopping, recreation, socializing and religious activities. After you have generated a list of needs, you can start to explore alternative methods to accomplishing your tasks.

When making your list, consider the possible barriers to success and brainstorm some solutions. For example, if you are concerned about relying too much on family and friends, research availability of volunteer drivers through churches, synagogues or senior centers. Cut down on the number of rides needed by scheduling several appointments on the same day or having medications or groceries delivered.

With the price of gas these days, many of us have contemplated alternatives to jumping into the car for every little thing. So don't wait for a day when your doctor or family recommends you give up the keys. Start getting organized now and use Mom's Rx to create a transportation plan:

• Make a list of phone numbers and/or Web addresses for various public transportation options such as buses and cabs.

• Go to www.cdta.org for maps and schedules and cross reference this with the destinations you frequently need.

• Consider ordering medications by mail, which is convenient and often cheaper. Some pharmacies will also deliver.

• Check if your grocery store will deliver.

• The Internet allows you to shop for anything while never needing to leave home. You can also shop by ordering through catalogues via the mail or phone.

• On the Web go to www.AlbanyCounty.com and search "transportation" for information on a variety of local available transportations options.

• If you are concerned about identification, you can get a nondriver photo identification card from the Department of Motor Vehicles. It has the same personal identification information, photo, signature and special safeguards against alterations as a driver's license.